I went to the Chef's Choice website and reviewed their material and videos which were VERY helpful. I also called their customer service number and discussed it with a live person who knew much more than anyone at the retail shops about the differences between different models. This one made the most sense for my needs.

Do you place the knife into the groove for the machine to do the work or run the knife through the machine a number of times to create friction? Does the knife go through all 3 stages or is each stage for a different size or type of knife?

Best Answer:Serrated knives are only sharpened on stage 3. Stage one should only be used on straight edged knives if they are very dull. Knives are to be pulled through each slot for about 3 to 6 seconds, depending on the length of the knife